Can a 16 year old get a passport without a parent?

Question: My 16-year-old son has an expired passport. My husband and I are in Tonga at the moment so we sent him back to the US before the passport expired. We sent him to renew or get a new one and they told him he needs a parents' consent. I was under the impression that at 16 you did not need a parent. Anyways, what now? Thank you for your help.

Comments for Can a 16 year old get a passport without a parent?

Question: I am an American citizen but I have been living in my mom's country since I was very young. I came to America and my mom doesn't have any valid identification;my parents are divorced and my mom does have the form from where she gets the full authority over me. How could I apply for my passport? I am 16 and my passport is about to expire.

Answer: If you have your own ID, you can apply for your passport on your own. While a written consent accompanied by a copy of ID from at least one parents is recommended, the consent may also be implied. For example, the check for the fees may be written by your mother and this will serve as implied consent. We recommend calling 1-877-487-2778 to speak to a customer service representative.

16-year-old daughterby: Anonymous

Question: How do I apply for a passport renewal for my daughter months before the passport expires in Los Angeles?

Answer: Your daughter must apply in person for a new passport at an application acceptance facility. At 16, she does not need to be accompanied by parents if she has her own photo ID.